30 November 2006
COMMITMENT TO RESIDENTS OF LOWER ORMEAU ROAD, BELFAST
Work to reduce the risk of flooding in the Lower Ormeau Road of south Belfast was outlined last night by Water Service at a public meeting organised by residents.
Plans for future major investment through the Belfast Sewers Project were also unveiled. Work on the project has already begun and is due to complete in 2009.
Phil Barker, Director of Operations, provided information on the work carried out to date: "A thorough investigation into the causes of the flooding was completed by Water Service in March 2006. The key findings identified that a complex set of factors contributed to the flooding. These included a pump failure at Sydenham Pumping Station, a fault in the pump electronic control system at River Terrace Pumping Station, the intensity of the rainfall combined with tidal conditions and a partial blockage caused by builders rubble in the gravity sewer downstream.
"A number of measures have since been implemented to minimise future risk at both pumping stations. These include installing a new electronic pump system, completing a sewer desilting operation upstream and downstream of River Terrace Pumping Station and replacement and improvement of equipment at Sydenham. At River Terrace a rigorous maintenance programme is also in operation to ensure storm overflow screens and sewers are kept clear."
He said: "The risk of flooding in the Lower Ormeau Road area will be significantly reduced on completion of the Belfast Sewers Project in 2009. In the interim, Water Service is committed to providing assistance to residents through the formation of an Action Group.
"One of the roles of the group will be to develop a localised emergency plan to ensure vital information and assistance is available to minimise the risk of damage to property and to cope with flood-related issues.
"It is envisaged that the group will be established within weeks and will maintain close working relationships with support agencies such as Water Service, Belfast City Council, Housing Executive and Fire and Rescue. This will enable it to act as an independent voice, particularly for the more vulnerable groups in the community."
Media queries to: Alison McCrystal. Water Service Press Office, Tel 07969567275 or email alison.mccrystal@waterni.gov.uk
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